Creating Natural Singular Portraits
Of course I write this from my own perspective and what works for me. Every photographer’s personality is different and as a result what works for each of us differs. But I write this in case there is someone who is quiet such as myself and speaking up isn't their jam. If that's you, I hope you find solace in knowing that you are not the only shy photographer out there. Here is a little write-up in creating natural poses with a groom as an unobtrusive photographer.
During a wedding day you have an allotted time for bride and groom portraits.
Something that never worked for me is announcing it is time for portraits of the groom. Pressure surfaces all around. Wedding party looks at the groom as he goes to stand in front of the tree or brick wall.
He stands there.
Hands in pocket, or hands folded.
You try to create movement and ask him to fix his tie.
It feels awkward.
And often times you don’t have two hours to warm someone up in front of a camera.
It’s kind of like when you watch Mad Men. You imagine what it must be like behind the scenes with the actors. Do they hate each other but have to pretend to get along in the scene? Then when the director yells, “Cut!” do they just resume to being normal people?
Alright - a slight digression there. It’s not exactly like that since I’m not questioning Mad Men’s concept. But I am asking myself questions and missing the point of the scene.
Create portraits where the concept isn’t lost and you aren’t asking yourself questions like, “Why is he fixing his tie in a parking lot?” resulting in you totally missing the beautiful visual of the photograph.
So, here’s a trick.
Take a natural moment as an opportunity for groom portraits.
At the wedding this past weekend the couple and their wedding party went to their favorite restaurant - Union - to share a bottle of champagne.
When they were done at the bar the groom ordered an Uber for everyone.
I made a mental note earlier that I needed some single photos of him and waited until a time that seemed fit. I took lots of wider photos with the whole wedding party but here I saw that opportunity to move in closer and photograph just him.
He was leaning with his elbow on the bar while the light shone in through the front window. He was looking down at his phone and reached his hand in his jacket to put his phone away. Then he resumed position to talk to his friends.
I could have designated a time and asked him to do all of those exact things. Lean on the bar, reach his hand in his pocket, look toward the window. But a disruption would have occurred. He was in conversation with his friends.
Guys look cool and photogenic on their wedding day. They’re dressed in a suit or outfit that reflects them and that they feel the most comfortable in. Any movement they create can make for a strong photograph. You just have to watch and react quickly.
Find your approach that you are most comfortable executing when shooting a wedding.
If you’re shy, embrace it. Don’t feel like you need to change your personality.
Who cares if your approach is different.
Dzesika
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